Updated: July 2, 2020
Originally Published: May 19, 2016
Image by Sasa Dinic / iStock
When I learned that strep throat was making its way through my son’s second-grade class, I let out that familiar mom sigh—the kind that signifies a deep understanding of what lies ahead. My son, a generally healthy kid, has a knack for catching strep early on whenever it surfaces.
Sure enough, just two days later, he was battling a fever, sore throat, and headache. The pediatrician swiftly confirmed my fears. I found myself canceling work meetings on my phone as we left the doctor’s office, bracing myself for a couple of days of nursing my cranky, sick boy while the amoxicillin worked its magic.
Once we were home, my son eagerly reached for the remote, fully aware that legitimate illness meant unlimited screen time in our household. I settled beside him with my laptop, ready to tackle work emails. Then, about half an hour into The Princess Bride, something unexpected happened.
“Mom. Mommy. Can you hold my hand?” he asked, extending his tiny hand toward me.
I looked over at my 8-year-old, his lanky body almost taking up the entire couch. This was the same child who now shies away from public displays of affection, has strong opinions about his wardrobe, and recently demanded a trendy spiky haircut to appear “cool.” He no longer needs that extra kiss or a glass of water at bedtime. He’s growing up fast.
“Of course,” I replied, trying to maintain my composure. “Why don’t you come sit a bit closer?” He nestled next to me, resting his feverish head on my shoulder. I wrapped my arm around him, and we fell into a comfortable silence, reminiscent of when he was a toddler, but now I found myself hesitant to move even slightly, afraid to disturb this moment.
We watched the entire movie together, my laptop and phone forgotten, the notifications chiming unanswered. I ignored the cold coffee beside me and the dishes piled high in the sink, focusing solely on the quiet joy of sharing this time with my son as the Man in Black triumphantly faced his challenges.
After the movie, he fidgeted and we decided to pull out the Lego bin from his room to build a magnificent tower. We spent the entire afternoon sifting through bricks for just the right pieces. I only took a moment to text my partner an update that the fever had finally subsided.
Once our Lego structure was complete, we ordered some comforting chicken soup and I read aloud to him from Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH. It was, without a doubt, the most delightful day I’d spent with my son in a long time. I almost felt sorry when my partner returned home with our other two children, who had been enjoying their own playdate. I was genuinely happy to see them, but a part of me was reluctant to end the magical day I had shared with my son.
It felt enchanting—me temporarily sidelining my adult responsibilities while he let go of his cool composure. It took me back to when he was my only child, my entire world at two years old, but now he was older, funnier, and smarter, captivating me in new ways. I could sense that the feeling was mutual. That night, as he settled into bed, he unexpectedly kissed my cheek and said, “Thanks for a great day, Mommy,” before drifting off to sleep.
The next morning, I sent him back to school, feeling grateful that the antibiotics had done their job. I sipped my coffee as he laced up his favorite sneakers and packed his backpack with math homework. At drop-off, he gave me his usual quick hug and dashed off to join his friends, not looking back. He was cool again, and I knew he would only continue to get cooler as he grew up.
Yet, as I strolled home, back to my laptop and routine, I couldn’t help but smile. I know there are still a few more moments left where my son will reach for my hand.
For more insights on parenting and family dynamics, check out our other blog posts, including this one on navigating unexpected moments in family life. And if you’re looking for resources on home insemination, visit this excellent guide on in vitro fertilisation or check out Make a Mom’s Impregnator at-home insemination kit to aid your journey.
Summary:
A sick day with my son turned into a beautiful opportunity to reconnect. As he rested from strep throat, we shared moments of laughter and creativity that reminded me of the magic in simple time spent together. In the midst of our busy lives, these unexpected days can offer a rare chance to bond, cherish, and appreciate the fleeting moments of childhood.
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